How to Call Laos from Australia (+856 Dial Guide)

International calls can feel confusing at first, especially when country codes and exit numbers are involved.

Whether you're calling family, friends, or business contacts, this guide keeps it simple.

To Call Laos from Australia, Dial:

+856 [area_code] [local_number]

Example:

If someone gives you: (020) 1234 5678

Dial: +856 20 1234 5678

If the number is written with brackets, ignore the brackets and dial the digits only.

When calling Laos from Australia, you must remove the leading '0' from the domestic number. For example, if the local number is 020 1234 5678, you drop the 0 and dial +856 20 1234 5678.

What Is the Laos Country Code?

The country code for Laos is +856.

Step-by-Step Dial Format (From Australia)

1. Dial + (or 0011)

2. Dial 856

3. Dial the area code

4. Dial the local number

Full format: +856 [area_code] [local_number]

Or using Australia's exit code: 0011 856 [area_code] [local_number]

+ vs 0011 — What's the Difference?

The + symbol works globally and is the recommended method. The 0011 exit code works specifically when dialling from Australia. Either format will connect your call.

Is Calling Laos Expensive?

Some mobile plans include international minutes, while others apply additional fees.

All E.Tel mobile plans include international minutes to call Laos directly from your mobile — 100, 200, or 300 minutes depending on your plan. No per-minute fee within your allowance, and predictable monthly billing.

Cheapest Way to Call Laos

There are three main options:

Internet calling apps — free or low cost but require a stable data connection.

Standard international dialling — reliable but billed per minute without an included allowance.

Mobile plan with included international minutes — best for regular callers who want simplicity and cost control.

If you call Laos regularly, a mobile plan with included international minutes is usually the simplest option.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Laos country code?

The country code for Laos is +856.

How do I call Laos from Australia?

Dial +856 followed by the area code and local number. You can also use 0011 instead of +.

Do mobile numbers use a different format?

No, the international dialling format is the same for both landlines and mobiles. You still dial +856, followed by the mobile prefix (e.g., 20 or 30) and the local number.

Can I use + instead of 0011?

Yes. The + symbol works globally and is the preferred method. 0011 is Australia's exit code and works the same way.

Summary

To call Laos from Australia: +856 [area_code] [local_number]

Once you know the correct dial format, calling Laos from Australia is straightforward.

Before making frequent international calls, check if your plan includes international minutes.